Police defend Obuasi SHTS abuse probe, say further allegations can be investigated if reported

The police have maintained their stance on the sexual abuse investigation at Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), asserting that they will investigate any allegations brought to their attention. Bekwai Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Lloyd Baidoo, addressed the discrepancies between the alleged 19 girls coming forward with abuse claims and the focus on a single complaint during an interview on JoyNews’ Top Story on October 20, 2026.

He emphasized that the police investigate only the complaints reported to them and would welcome reports from other alleged victims. ASP Baidoo clarified that each case would be dealt with independently, and the police would investigate any additional allegations if reported to them. He also stated that the police have completed their investigation of the single rape complaint filed on August 4, 2026, and forwarded it to the Attorney General for their review.

The police are now awaiting instructions on the subsequent steps in the case. The case has sparked national concern, with at least 19 girls reportedly alleging abuse involving the headmaster, Zakaria Abdulai, who has been interdicted by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has been directed to investigate the allegations.

Civil society organizations have called for thorough investigations and accountability for those involved in enabling or concealing the abuse.